Did you know that every 8 minutes there is a disaster somewhere on this planet? It has long been known that the entire archipelago that is Indonesia sits on a major fault line, that leaves us wide open for quakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunami. Along with flood, fire and the occasional risk of terrorism, I think that gives us more than valid reason to make ourselves well prepared for what could very well happen!
WATER
Dehydration and disease from dirty water is one of the foremost concerns following a major disaster. You should prepare a three-day supply of water for everyone in your home. The Red Cross recommends one gallon per person per day, however I think this is a little excessive. You should be able to survive on about 6-8 glasses of water a day and let’s face it we are talking “survival” here! Store the water in opaque plastic containers (sealed 4 liter Aqua bottles are ideal). Change this water every six months. It is also worth keeping a supply of water purification tablets (not available here in Bali). You can also boil well water if you have the facilities; even urine can be used in a life / death situation! Don’t forget to use other water sources such as coconuts. You will fare much better if you add re-hydration salts or electrolytes to your water. Keep sachets of oralyte (2 per person per day) in your emergency supplies.
FOOD
Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables.
Canned juices, milk.
High energy foods such as dried fruit, crackers, granola bars, unsalted nuts (that will not increase thirst).
Vitamins.
Foods for infants, elderly, persons with special dietary needs.
Be aware that rice & pasta need to be cooked which means that you will need both water and heating, so it is not a good idea to rely on these as your first line source of emergency food supplies.
FIRST AID KIT
Sterile adhesive bandages in assorted sizes.
Assorted sizes of safety pins.
Cleansing agent/soap/ wet-wipes.
Triangular bandages.
Non-prescription drugs such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medicines.
Broad spectrum antibiotics such as Amoxil.
Various roller bandages.
Scissors, tweezers, needle.
Antiseptic – Betadine.
Thermometer.
First aid manual.
Special needs medication for your family e.g. asthma or diabetic supplies.
OTHER HEALTH CONCERNS
Always make sure that your family’s vaccines are up to date, especially for Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitis A as these diseases are rampant following disasters. (Cholera vaccine is no longer used). Make yourself aware of basic first aid measures.
TOOLS AND SUPPLIES
Battery-operated radio and extra batteries.
Flashlight and extra batteries.
Non-electric can opener or a utility knife.
Pliers.
Tape.
Matches in a waterproof container.
Candles.
Aluminum foil.
Paper, pencil.
Needles, thread.
SANITATION
Soap, liquid detergent.
Feminine supplies.
Plastic garbage bags and ties.
Plastic bucket with tight lid.
Household chlorine bleach.
DOCUMENTS
Store family documents (passports, medical records etc.) in a waterproof bag or container. It is also wise to store passport details / numbers on your person (e.g. in your cell phone memory), should you need to evacuate the island quickly.
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Kim Patra is a qualified Registered Nurse and Midwife that has been living and working in Bali for almost twenty years. She now runs her own private practice and medical referral service from her Kuta office. Kim is happy to discuss any health concerns with you and she may be contacted via e-mail at info@chcbali.com”.
